A six year long study of 815 individuals has provided results supporting Pycnogenol's blood circulation benefits. Pycnogenol is an anti-oxidant rich extract from French maritime pine bark manufactured by Horphag Research.
The Italian researchers analysed documents of patients treated at difference centers that reported repeated deep vein thrombosis and post thrombosis symptoms. These conditions describe clots in a part of the circulatory system.
The participants were given two management options - either standard management which consisted of compressed socks and control of thrombotic risk factors (e.g. reduced mobility, dehydration, prolonged flights) or standard management plus an intervention.
There were 5 groups in total: a control group using just the standard management, an aspirin group, two using blood thinners and lastly the Pyncogenol group.
Pyncogenol was most effective and safe for reduced deep vein thrombosis
The authors concluded that Pycnogenol was the most effective and safe for reduced deep vein thrombosis and particularly post-thrombotic symptoms because it significantly lowered the incidence of recurrent thrombosis, incidence of post-thrombosis symptoms and overall had the lowest occurrence of thrombotic events compared to the other test groups.
The lead researcher, Dr Gianni Belcaro, has published many studies positing the health benefits from supplementing with Pycnogenol including one that found that the extract may alleviate post-flight symptoms such as jet lag and swelling.
So far there is no drug to treat or prevent recurring deep vein thrombosis or post-thrombosis symptoms, and while that claim is not being made about Pycnogenol here, it can be seen that supplementation with the extract supports vascular health. A spokesperson for Horphag research comments further to say:
"Numerous studies now show the effects of Pycnogenol for improved circulation, and that it may help reduce the risk of thrombosis."
A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.